After the violation: sex workers’ responses to unwanted incidents

Teela Sanders*, Harriet Smailes, Barbara G. Brents, Gillian Abel, Jane Scoular

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

In this chapter, we report on sex workers’ responses to incidents of unwanted contact—such as the removal of a condom, non-payment, or other client behaviours that crossed their boundaries. We examine the actions sex workers take during and after these violations, exploring their motivations and the influence of formal law, workplace rules, and social norms. We analyse the factors that lead sex workers to various responses and how their reactions differ based on the legal context and the sex market they operate in. Survey responses reveal that sex workers rarely seek statutory support services. We explore how their legal consciousness shapes their individual actions and intersects with workplace responses. This analysis highlights the dynamics between sex workers’ understanding of formal law, workplace policies and culture, and the informal norms.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationVoicing Consent
Subtitle of host publicationSex Workers, Sexual Violation and Legal Consciousness in Cross-National Contexts
EditorsTeela Sanders, Jane Scoular, Barbara G. Brents, Susie Balderston, Gillian Abel
Place of PublicationCham
PublisherPalgrave Macmillan Ltd.
Chapter5
Pages117-142
Number of pages26
ISBN (Electronic)9783031777158
ISBN (Print)9783031777141, 9783031777172
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Feb 2025

Keywords

  • human rights
  • rape
  • consent
  • safe sex
  • social policy
  • stigma
  • regulating sex work
  • sexual assault
  • harrassment
  • whorephobia
  • victimology
  • public health
  • decriminalisation of sex work

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